ONE of the region's football clubs attracts more of its support locally than any other in the Premier League, a survey has found.

A total of 88 per cent of Middlesbrough supporters live within one hour's drive of the Riverside Stadium, according to the FA Premier League National Fan Survey.

The survey also found that the club has the highest percentage of female supporters, at 20 per cent.

And the typical Boro season ticket holder is male, aged between 35 and 54 and earns about £29,000 a year.

More than two out of three Riverside regulars described their commitment to the club as either fanatic or very keen, a figure topped only by Arsenal and Everton.

Boro chief executive Keith Lamb said: "Overall, this is very positive news for the club and a testament to the hard work and skills of our staff."

Figures were not available for Newcastle United